Amritsar: The Timeless Tale of Punjab’s Golden City
Nestled in the fertile plains of Punjab, Amritsar is a city where history whispers through its streets, its every corner echoing tales of resilience, spirituality, and grandeur. This iconic city, known for the Golden Temple, stands as the beating heart of Sikhism, drawing millions from around the world. Let us embark on a journey through its layered history—a narrative as vivid and profound as the golden hues of the Harmandir Sahib at sunrise.
The Origins: A Sacred Foundation
Before the city was established, the area was dense jungle with water ponds (Dhab).
Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji first visited in 1559 during his first Udasi (travel). He visited this serene place with Mardana number of times during his travel from Sultanpur Lodhi to Kartarpur and back.
Shri Guru Angad Dev Ji visited this area first time while traveling from Khadur Sahib to Kartarpur Sahib. It is said that the third Guru Shri Amardas Ji visited this area in search of a herbal plant (buttie) for the treatment of thumb of Shri Guru Angad Dev Ji. This herbal plant was known as ‘Amriti’
Shri Guru Amardas Ji with Guru Ramdas Ji and baba Budda Ji travelled to the banks of Dhab (Pond) and surveyed the area. It is said that Shri Guru Ramdas Ji bought this land in consultation with Badshah Akbar from Jamindars of villages for RS 700/- . Different historians have given different version of laying of foundation stone (Mohadii gaddan) of Harmandar Sahib. Some say the foundation stone was laid by Shri Guru Amardas Ji and some say it was laid by Shri Guru Ramdas Ji. Accordingly there are different dates written by historians for the foundation laying ceremony. Some have given the foundation laying year as 1564, some 1570 and some 1577. However, Kesar Singh Chibber has mentioned 1577 as completion of digging of Amrit Sarover in Bansawali Naama on page 40.
Therefore, it may not be wrong to say that Amritsar's story begins in 1577 when Guru Ram Das Ji, the fourth Sikh Guru, envisioned a sanctuary for spiritual seekers. The name "Amritsar" itself—derived from "Amrit Sarovar," meaning the "Pool of Nectar"—is rooted in the sacred tank that was constructed around what would later become the Golden Temple. This holy city became a beacon of hope and divinity, its foundation rooted in inclusivity and devotion.
During the Mughal era, Amritsar flourished as a spiritual hub, yet it was not spared from the challenges of history. Under the guidance of Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Sikh Guru, the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) was completed, symbolizing equality by welcoming people of all religions and castes. Tragically, Guru Arjan Dev's martyrdom under the Mughal Emperor Jahangir marked the beginning of Sikhism's transformation into a community of saint-soldiers.
The Rise of Sikh Sovereignty
The 18th century brought turbulence as Afghan invaders, led by Ahmad Shah Durrani, repeatedly attacked Punjab. Amritsar bore the brunt of destruction but emerged stronger with each assault. The city's resilience was epitomized by the rise of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the "Lion of Punjab," who united the Sikh misls (clans) in the early 19th century. Under his reign, Amritsar blossomed as a center of trade, culture, and governance.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh's golden touch transformed the Harmandir Sahib. He covered the structure in gold, giving it the iconic appearance that captivates visitors today. This act was not merely an embellishment but a declaration of the city’s enduring spirit and glory.
Colonial Rule and the Fight for Freedom
Amritsar became a focal point during India’s struggle for independence. It was here, in the heart of Jallianwala Bagh, that one of the darkest chapters of British colonial rule unfolded. On April 13, 1919, General Dyer ordered troops to fire upon unarmed civilians gathered for a peaceful protest, killing hundreds. The ‘Jallianwala Bagh Massacre’ ignited national outrage and galvanized the freedom movement. Today, the memorial at Jallianwala Bagh stands as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made in the quest for liberty.
During this era, Amritsar also became a hub for political activism. The Akali movement, born in the early 20th century, sought to restore Sikh control over gurdwaras and played a pivotal role in the city's social and political evolution.
Partition: A City Divided, Yet United
The Partition of 1947 dealt a heavy blow to Amritsar. As Punjab was cleaved into India and Pakistan, the city found itself on the frontlines of one of history’s largest migrations. Amritsar witnessed both the horrors of violence and the strength of human resilience as millions fled across borders seeking safety.
Yet, Amritsar rose again. The refugees who made the city their home infused it with new energy, contributing to its economic and cultural revival.
Modern Amritsar: A Blend of Heritage and Progress
Today, Amritsar stands as a vibrant confluence of history, spirituality, and modernity. The Golden Temple remains the city's crown jewel, welcoming millions of devotees annually and serving as a symbol of peace and humility. The ‘Partition Museum’, the only one of its kind, preserves the memories of those who lived through the trauma of 1947.
Beyond its sacred landmarks, Amritsar thrives as a bustling urban center. The vibrant lanes of Hall Bazaar and Guru Bazaar brim with life, offering everything from traditional Phulkari embroidery to gleaming ornaments. Meanwhile, the aromas of Amritsari kulchas, Amritsari fish, mutton tikkas, poories and lassis waft through its streets, tempting every traveler with the promise of a culinary feast.
Amritsar’s Global Legacy
Amritsar is not merely a city; it is a symbol of humanity’s ability to persevere, rebuild, and thrive. It embodies Punjab’s indomitable spirit, a place where the sacred and the worldly exist in perfect harmony. For travelers, historians, and spiritual seekers alike, Amritsar remains an unparalleled destination—a city that is as much about its past as it is about its future.
Plan Your Journey
Whether you seek to walk the hallowed grounds of the Golden Temple, pay homage at Jallianwala Bagh, or lose yourself in the kaleidoscope of Amritsar's culture, amritsarpunjab.com is your trusted guide to this remarkable city.
For those ready to explore Amritsar, the journey begins here. Dive into the stories, traditions, and flavors that make this city the beating heart of Punjab.
References: ‘Shri Harmandar Sahib Da Sunheri Itihaas’ by Singh Sahib Giani Kirpal Singh